Kewal Singh Pathania expressed his pain over the neglect of Himachali artists

The issue of alleged neglect of Himachali artists at state fairs is once again in the news. This time, the issue came to light when a nearly six-minute video of the state’s Deputy Chief Whip, Kewal Singh Pathania, went viral on social media. In the video, he openly expressed his views on the lack of adequate opportunities and recognition for local artists at the state’s international, national, and district-level fairs.
Pathania stated that Himachali artists are neither given adequate stage time at fairs nor are they paid remuneration commensurate with their talent. He alleged that at many events, local artists are called on stage around 5 p.m., only to have their performances wrapped up within minutes. He added that the role of middlemen in artist selection has increased, while genuine talents are denied adequate opportunities.
He suggested that the responsibility of selecting artists should be entrusted to a committee of music experts, rather than the administration, to ensure transparency and provide a platform to deserving artists. He said that regardless of the district an artist hails from, they should receive opportunities based on their talent. He also demanded that at least one or two cultural evenings at major fairs in the state be reserved solely for Himachali artists.
Meanwhile, artists from various regions of the state also expressed their anguish, saying that they are given very little time at fairs and receive a mere honorarium of two to three thousand rupees, which does not even cover their travel expenses. The artists say that even basic amenities like food and accommodation are not provided for them at fairs.
Some artistes alleged that even experienced artistes approved by All India Radio and Doordarshan are ignored, while on the basis of political recommendations, people who have no special connection with music get the platform.
The artists welcomed Kewal Singh Pathania’s statement, saying that for the first time a public representative had publicly raised their concerns so prominently. They expressed hope that the state government would make the artist selection process more transparent and fair in the future, and that artists promoting Himachali folk culture would receive due respect and opportunity.